Guest guest Posted October 10, 2011 Report Share Posted October 10, 2011 Short reply, I had to legalize eating for comfort too. When I did/do, I just work on being present with the moment and with whatever feelings are there. There's nothing that feeds the desire to eat more than resisting or fighting it. Just accept that you need to right now and above all be kind. Silence the critics and allow, allow, allow. Good luck with this precious time in your life. Sandarah > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 10, 2011 Report Share Posted October 10, 2011 Short reply, I had to legalize eating for comfort too. When I did/do, I just work on being present with the moment and with whatever feelings are there. There's nothing that feeds the desire to eat more than resisting or fighting it. Just accept that you need to right now and above all be kind. Silence the critics and allow, allow, allow. Good luck with this precious time in your life. Sandarah > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 10, 2011 Report Share Posted October 10, 2011 Short reply, I had to legalize eating for comfort too. When I did/do, I just work on being present with the moment and with whatever feelings are there. There's nothing that feeds the desire to eat more than resisting or fighting it. Just accept that you need to right now and above all be kind. Silence the critics and allow, allow, allow. Good luck with this precious time in your life. Sandarah > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Yes, the quiet here is almost eyrie to me too. But like most of our lives, such lulls are short when looked back on. When I find myself in an overwhelmed mode what usually happens to me is that I find myself 1) withdrawing and 2) feeling (momentarily) helpless. What gets me out of that quagmire is to chose ONE thing to do, immersing myself in it and basically ignoring the 'rest of the pile'. As I get that one task going and accomplished my energy for doing the other tasks returns and they get done as I can manage them. Not only are you being saddled with a LOT, but you are most likely battling some 'loss' feelings too. These can de-energize you as much as being overwhelmed with daily tasks. My first thought for you would be to allow yourself to be comforted - any way you can - and do tap into whatever support you can find at this moment. Hopefully others will chime in here with their own bits of insight so you will have a wealth of ideas to assist you. Good job for posting, I am honored that you shared this need with us. Katcha IEing since March 2007 > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Yes, the quiet here is almost eyrie to me too. But like most of our lives, such lulls are short when looked back on. When I find myself in an overwhelmed mode what usually happens to me is that I find myself 1) withdrawing and 2) feeling (momentarily) helpless. What gets me out of that quagmire is to chose ONE thing to do, immersing myself in it and basically ignoring the 'rest of the pile'. As I get that one task going and accomplished my energy for doing the other tasks returns and they get done as I can manage them. Not only are you being saddled with a LOT, but you are most likely battling some 'loss' feelings too. These can de-energize you as much as being overwhelmed with daily tasks. My first thought for you would be to allow yourself to be comforted - any way you can - and do tap into whatever support you can find at this moment. Hopefully others will chime in here with their own bits of insight so you will have a wealth of ideas to assist you. Good job for posting, I am honored that you shared this need with us. Katcha IEing since March 2007 > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Yes, the quiet here is almost eyrie to me too. But like most of our lives, such lulls are short when looked back on. When I find myself in an overwhelmed mode what usually happens to me is that I find myself 1) withdrawing and 2) feeling (momentarily) helpless. What gets me out of that quagmire is to chose ONE thing to do, immersing myself in it and basically ignoring the 'rest of the pile'. As I get that one task going and accomplished my energy for doing the other tasks returns and they get done as I can manage them. Not only are you being saddled with a LOT, but you are most likely battling some 'loss' feelings too. These can de-energize you as much as being overwhelmed with daily tasks. My first thought for you would be to allow yourself to be comforted - any way you can - and do tap into whatever support you can find at this moment. Hopefully others will chime in here with their own bits of insight so you will have a wealth of ideas to assist you. Good job for posting, I am honored that you shared this need with us. Katcha IEing since March 2007 > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Jane,Your message in inspiring to me as you talk about plodding along with caring for those you love and yourself, just for now. I've too often let the plodding pace of my life be a reason to eat, and I appreciate knowing that others deal with isolation, the stresses of being home with kids, and the need to get out and do something. Thanks for the reminders. Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Jane,Your message in inspiring to me as you talk about plodding along with caring for those you love and yourself, just for now. I've too often let the plodding pace of my life be a reason to eat, and I appreciate knowing that others deal with isolation, the stresses of being home with kids, and the need to get out and do something. Thanks for the reminders. Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Clare,My only advice is to allow yourself to BE with your emotions. FEEL the sadness, the fear, whatever else you are feeling. I find that as long as I keep fighting emotions away, they plague me. It's okay if you have problems that aren't as bad as some folks... they are worse than others'... it's not about comparing your pain to anyone else's. try to take care of yourself in whatever small ways you can RIGHT NOW while you are feeling overwhelmed. you will find a way to assimilate to the news, but you don't have to do it today. just be very, very kind to yourself for today... and tomorrow, too. best,abby  Jane,Your message in inspiring to me as you talk about plodding along with caring for those you love and yourself, just for now. I've too often let the plodding pace of my life be a reason to eat, and I appreciate knowing that others deal with isolation, the stresses of being home with kids, and the need to get out and do something. Thanks for the reminders.  Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Clare,My only advice is to allow yourself to BE with your emotions. FEEL the sadness, the fear, whatever else you are feeling. I find that as long as I keep fighting emotions away, they plague me. It's okay if you have problems that aren't as bad as some folks... they are worse than others'... it's not about comparing your pain to anyone else's. try to take care of yourself in whatever small ways you can RIGHT NOW while you are feeling overwhelmed. you will find a way to assimilate to the news, but you don't have to do it today. just be very, very kind to yourself for today... and tomorrow, too. best,abby  Jane,Your message in inspiring to me as you talk about plodding along with caring for those you love and yourself, just for now. I've too often let the plodding pace of my life be a reason to eat, and I appreciate knowing that others deal with isolation, the stresses of being home with kids, and the need to get out and do something. Thanks for the reminders.  Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 11, 2011 Report Share Posted October 11, 2011 Clare,My only advice is to allow yourself to BE with your emotions. FEEL the sadness, the fear, whatever else you are feeling. I find that as long as I keep fighting emotions away, they plague me. It's okay if you have problems that aren't as bad as some folks... they are worse than others'... it's not about comparing your pain to anyone else's. try to take care of yourself in whatever small ways you can RIGHT NOW while you are feeling overwhelmed. you will find a way to assimilate to the news, but you don't have to do it today. just be very, very kind to yourself for today... and tomorrow, too. best,abby  Jane,Your message in inspiring to me as you talk about plodding along with caring for those you love and yourself, just for now. I've too often let the plodding pace of my life be a reason to eat, and I appreciate knowing that others deal with isolation, the stresses of being home with kids, and the need to get out and do something. Thanks for the reminders.  Clare, I'm right with you on feeling off and needing to get back on track. But I'm finding that I can't start with the food, myself. When I'm overwhelmed, I must plod through doing what self-care is easiest and then bit by bit, I am able to move on to the more difficult self-care challenges. I often feel isolated, as I too am home with kids and there are times my husband is unable to be here for me. I find that it helps me to plan an outing a day, as many as possible social. So, I'll plan to go to church on Sunday, take my regular weekly walk-and-talk with a friend on Monday, go to the library on Wednesday, shop on Thursday, arrange a play date on Friday, go garage saling Saturday, say. Then, I'll also make a point of contacting someone every day, by phone or email, in addition to my husband. Right now, my struggle in unrelenting stress. There are multiple members of my immediate family with significant issues right now, and everything is falling on me. This has been going on for about 2 years now and my last real vacation was maybe 5 years ago. I am suffering from various stress-related health issues, but there is no end in sight. Last night I heard myself getting screechy and much less tolerant of noise and minor disobedience than normal. I had had a migraine aura without a headache in the morning, but by evening, noise was painful, I felt nauseous, and reading was unappealing. I didn't truly have a migraine, but felt lousy with what I did have. So I stopped and thought about what I needed to do for myself. As soon as my toddler was down and my other kids didn't need anything from me, I simply went to bed. At first I couldn't sleep, but the dark and silence was good. The long night was rejuvenating. This morning I am prepared to catch up a bit on dishes and laundry and want to make some tuna-maceroni salad so there is something readily available when I am hungry. I've been unable to face cooking and it's been a problem every time I got hungry for weeks. My stomach still aches and my chest feel tight, both from stress. I am still feeling the niggling worry, knowing I could receive a stressful phone call about any of several difficult situations at any time, but right now, I am able to focus on plodding along with caring for those I love and myself, just for today. And when you get right down to it, right this moment is ALL any of us has, so being functional right now is all we need. I chose to eat lightly for breakfast and right now am wanting to wait until I am hungry again to eat lunch. And that is enough. Jane > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2011 Report Share Posted October 12, 2011 Hi Jane Thanks so much for taking the time to reply especially given that your life is so stretched at the moment. I really hope that things begin to settle down for you and yours soon. My husband flew out today - so at least that has taken the waiting not knowing time away. I appreciated your suggestion about scheduling a social event for each day - it's holidays here for the next fortnight - so my usual routines are out the window as my 4 year old is off kindy. But I will try to do what you suggest and plan something fun for us to do each day. Today we did manage to get out to walk the dog (really just a slow stroll for me) but it was a source of great delight for the kids and the dog - my 4 year old has just had her birthday and was thrilled for the opportunity to try out her new umbrella in the rain, my not quite 3 year old hooned around at full speed being Roary the Racing Car and the dog had fun chasing the swallows. Later in the day I managed to leave the kids with my MIL so that I could get to the gym - we have all been sick with a vomiting bug this week - so my exercise has been sadly missing - and it was sooooo good to get moving and get my heart rate elevated for a bit. It's also a bit of space to read a book on the cross trainer and bike as well as lift a few weights. My 4 year old and I made Funky Fairies this afternoon so that she can send them to her Dad. I took the time to meditate this morning - my twice daily practice had got a bit lost in the last couple of weeks - so it was good to make the time. So in fact my eating was the most relaxed it's been in ages. I guess when life is filled with challenge it's important to live in the moment rather than waste energy worrying about a future which may never unfold in the way in which we fear. So once again thanks for taking the time to respond - I really appreciated it. Clare > > > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2011 Report Share Posted October 12, 2011 Hi Jane Thanks so much for taking the time to reply especially given that your life is so stretched at the moment. I really hope that things begin to settle down for you and yours soon. My husband flew out today - so at least that has taken the waiting not knowing time away. I appreciated your suggestion about scheduling a social event for each day - it's holidays here for the next fortnight - so my usual routines are out the window as my 4 year old is off kindy. But I will try to do what you suggest and plan something fun for us to do each day. Today we did manage to get out to walk the dog (really just a slow stroll for me) but it was a source of great delight for the kids and the dog - my 4 year old has just had her birthday and was thrilled for the opportunity to try out her new umbrella in the rain, my not quite 3 year old hooned around at full speed being Roary the Racing Car and the dog had fun chasing the swallows. Later in the day I managed to leave the kids with my MIL so that I could get to the gym - we have all been sick with a vomiting bug this week - so my exercise has been sadly missing - and it was sooooo good to get moving and get my heart rate elevated for a bit. It's also a bit of space to read a book on the cross trainer and bike as well as lift a few weights. My 4 year old and I made Funky Fairies this afternoon so that she can send them to her Dad. I took the time to meditate this morning - my twice daily practice had got a bit lost in the last couple of weeks - so it was good to make the time. So in fact my eating was the most relaxed it's been in ages. I guess when life is filled with challenge it's important to live in the moment rather than waste energy worrying about a future which may never unfold in the way in which we fear. So once again thanks for taking the time to respond - I really appreciated it. Clare > > > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2011 Report Share Posted October 12, 2011 Hi Jane Thanks so much for taking the time to reply especially given that your life is so stretched at the moment. I really hope that things begin to settle down for you and yours soon. My husband flew out today - so at least that has taken the waiting not knowing time away. I appreciated your suggestion about scheduling a social event for each day - it's holidays here for the next fortnight - so my usual routines are out the window as my 4 year old is off kindy. But I will try to do what you suggest and plan something fun for us to do each day. Today we did manage to get out to walk the dog (really just a slow stroll for me) but it was a source of great delight for the kids and the dog - my 4 year old has just had her birthday and was thrilled for the opportunity to try out her new umbrella in the rain, my not quite 3 year old hooned around at full speed being Roary the Racing Car and the dog had fun chasing the swallows. Later in the day I managed to leave the kids with my MIL so that I could get to the gym - we have all been sick with a vomiting bug this week - so my exercise has been sadly missing - and it was sooooo good to get moving and get my heart rate elevated for a bit. It's also a bit of space to read a book on the cross trainer and bike as well as lift a few weights. My 4 year old and I made Funky Fairies this afternoon so that she can send them to her Dad. I took the time to meditate this morning - my twice daily practice had got a bit lost in the last couple of weeks - so it was good to make the time. So in fact my eating was the most relaxed it's been in ages. I guess when life is filled with challenge it's important to live in the moment rather than waste energy worrying about a future which may never unfold in the way in which we fear. So once again thanks for taking the time to respond - I really appreciated it. Clare > > > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2011 Report Share Posted October 12, 2011 Thanks Abby - I'll do my best - I know I have been pretty good at stuffing them down with food - so it will be interesting to see what they actually are! How is that new baby of yours settling in?? Clare > > > > > > It's been kind of quiet around here lately.... > > > > > > I was doing quite well a couple of months back in getting my eating into > > a more intuitive regime - but feel that, of late, I have really lost the > > plot and need some advice about how to get things back under control. > > > > > > It has been a tough year on the home front and my husband has changed > > jobs - the latest strain is that he will be working offshore 3 weeks out of > > 4 and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect as I have 2 toddlers. I > > know that lots of people face much worse challenges - but for me this is a > > biggie as I am already feeling quite socially isolated. > > > > > > In my heart, I know we will get through the challenges - but I find > > myself comfort eating again which is quite scary. > > > > > > Any words of advice to get me back on track would be most appreciated. > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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